In 2025, Canada rejected nearly 80% of Indian student visa applications, marking the highest rejection rate in a decade, according to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). Indian students, once the largest group of international students in Canada, now face significant hurdles amid tightened visa rules.
Families and students across India are shocked as Canada’s appeal falls sharply, with only 9% of Indian students considering Canada their top study destination. Germany has now overtaken Canada as the preferred destination for Indian students, gaining 31% preference. The changes come amid Canadian domestic pressures including housing shortages, infrastructure constraints, and political demands to prioritise local workforce.
Visa Rejection Surge: What Has Changed?
Canada’s visa regime tightened sharply in 2025, with the IRCC introducing stricter financial documentation requirements, including a doubling of minimum proof of funds to over CA$20,000. The government also raised language proficiency benchmarks for graduates and eliminated some post-study work permit opportunities. Fast-track routes such as the Student Direct Stream were closed, slowing visa approvals even further.
Ottawa’s plan to issue 437,000 study permits in 2025 is roughly 10% lower than the previous year. These policy shifts aim to balance international enrolments with local social and economic priorities, but have created growing uncertainty for prospective Indian students.
Impact on Indian Students and Canadian Education
This steep visa rejection wave affects students and families emotionally and financially, as many had invested heavily in preparation and expected stable pathways to residency through Canadian education. Universities, especially smaller colleges dependent on international tuition, face revenue drops and threats of mergers or closures.
Meanwhile, Indian students are increasingly looking towards alternative countries. Germany, with its growing English-language programmes, affordable education, and welcoming immigration policies, has surged as India’s top study abroad choice. Other destinations like France, Finland, Australia, and parts of Asia and the Middle East are also gaining traction.
The Logical Indian’s Perspective
The dramatic shift in Canada’s student visa approval landscape highlights the complex balance between a country’s internal policy needs and the global aspirations of young students. The Logical Indian calls for transparent, empathetic policymaking that protects domestic interests without harshly curtailing international educational exchange.
Students and families must stay informed, exploring diverse pathways while governments from India and host nations enhance cooperation for fair and sustainable mobility.
